Stres na radu i načini rješavanja stresa među vojnim liječnicima

The study examined work stress and copping strategies in military physicians. All military physicians were invited to complete a 37-items questionnaire on stress at work and 19- items questionnaire on stress copping strategies. The overall response rate was 31% and the final sample size was 31 physicians. Out of 31 participants, 18 were military general practitioners (mean age 42 yrs, 12 female, 6 male ) and 13 were consultants of different specialities (mean age 45 yrs, 6 female, 7 male). Participants evaluated intensity of work stressors by 1 to 5 scale (Likert Scale). The avarage score for each stressor was calculated. The data was descriptively examined. General practitioners reported 11out of 37 work related stressors. Consultans recognized 6 out of 37 work stressors. Both groups recognized inadequate salary and being bypassed for promotion with the avarage score 4 ( 1-5 scale). Poor resources, inadequatue continuing education, excesive paper work and poor management were evaluated by both groups with the avarage score above 3. Additionally, general practitioners reported unpredictable situations, lack of co-workers, lack of time, inadequate facilities and round the clock responsibility as work stressors. Out of 31 participants 18 were female. Being woman in military turned out to be difficult for four female general practitioners. More than half of our participants use family activities (65%) and physical activities (58%) as copping strategies. To reduce stress one third participants take part in some hobies. The most participants in this study stated to use positive strategies when in stresful situation:71 % talk with friends or family members, 40 % plan to solve the problem. Some of our participants smoke (4/31), use sedatives (2/31) or alcohol (1/31) when in stressful situation. Generic work stressors were identified more frequenttly than specific stressors. Perception of stressors depend on the workplace. The most of our participants use positive strategies to reduce stress. Results suggests that organisational and individual stress reduction programs are important.